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What If I Need Dentures?

What If I Need Dentures?

What If I Need Dentures?

Dentures

Dentures are removable replacements for teeth you’ve lost or need to be extracted, due to problems such as injury or decay. Depending on the state of your teeth, you may benefit from partial dentures or a full set. 

What are dentures?

If you’ve lost all of your teeth due to an injury, gum disease, or decay, dentures can help restore your smile while making daily tasks easier. The removable devices make eating and talking more comfortable than they tend to be without teeth. Dentures can also improve your facial structure because without teeth the face can take on a sagging, hollowed look. Dentures may also improve your self-confidence.

There are numerous types of dentures, including:

  • Conventional dentures, which are placed in your mouth after any remaining teeth are extracted and surrounding tissues have healed
  • Immediate dentures, which are inserted the same day your missing teeth are removed
  • Overdentures, which fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth your dentist has prepared

What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures work like regular, full dentures, but they only replace some of your teeth. Partial dentures often have a clasp that attaches to some of your surrounding teeth and look like a metal retainer with some teeth attached.

How do dentures feel?

Dentures may feel a bit awkward at first. They may feel loose while your tongue and cheek muscles attempt to keep them in place, and you may experience mild tenderness or irritation. You may also notice more saliva production. Within a few weeks, however, you and your mouth will likely adjust. If challenges continue or worsen, check in with your dentist.

To eat more effectively when you start wearing your dentures, consider these steps:

  • Aim to chew on both sides of your mouth to even out the pressure
  • Eat mostly soft foods
  • Cut food into small pieces
  • Limit or avoid sticky or hard foods, such as caramels or popcorn
  • Don’t chew gum whenever you’re wearing dentures

How should I take care of my dentures?

Dentures require similar oral hygiene practices as natural teeth. Brush them daily to get rid of plaque and lingering food bits, and to prevent staining. You also want to rinse your dentures before brushing them and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush other mouth areas as well, including your inner cheeks, gums, and the roof of your mouth to guard against infection and bad breath.

When you’re not wearing dentures, store them in a safe place, covered in water to prevent warping. If you use an adhesive, choose one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance on the packaging for ensured safety and effectiveness.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for either full or partial dentures, get started today by booking an appointment using the online scheduler or calling the office.